What to expect this year
This time last year, Katusha’s future was uncertain after the Russian team was denied a ProTeam license. Twelve months on however, and with the world number one rider – Joaquim Rodriguez – still in their ranks, such troubles are well behind them as they bid to build on a successful 2013. Aim number one, most observers feel, is for Purito to win a Grand Tour after a career of near-misses. The popular, diminutive Spaniard has a great chance at the Vuelta a Espana, with a mountainous last ten days perfectly suited to his climbing legs as long as he does not lose too much time in the first individual time trial.
Rodriguez is also a contender for the Ardennes Classics alongside team-mate Daniel Moreno – who won La Fleche Wallonne last year. He is set to bypass the Tour to focus on the Giro and Vuelta double however, which could open the way for Alexander Kristoff to challenge for stage honours there. Kristoff’s form in the Classics – top ten last year at Milan-San Remo, the Ronde and Paris-Roubaix – show he is capable of challenging on the one-day scene, while his stage victory at the Tour de Suisse prove his sprint should not be belittled. The points jersey is likely to be a step too far, but he could improve on his fifth place last year if given the opportunity. Moreno’s season is yet to be confirmed though, and after two stage wins and tenth place at the Vuelta, the Spaniard may fancy a shot at the Tour too.
Who’s new for 2014?
Alexander Rybakov (RUS) from RusVelo, Pavel Kochetkov (RUS) from RusVelo, Egor Silin (RUS) from Astana.
Who has left?
Xavier Florencio (ESP) retired, Denis Menchov (RUS) retired, Timofey Kritskiy (RUS) to RusVelo
Riders to watch
Joaquim Rodriguez – World number one for a reason, the Spanish climbing ace is determined to add a Grand Tour to his palmares and this could be the year.
Daniel Moreno – A loyal lieutenant to Rodriguez, Moreno is more than capable of competing in his own right too, not least in the hilly Classics.
Alexander Kristoff – A rouleur with a fair sprint, a little luck could see him improve on some solid showings in 2013.
